A groundbreaking collaboration between Turkcell, Beko, and Ericsson has successfully delivered Türkiye’s first real-time remote industrial design experience using 5G-powered eXtended Reality (XR) technology. This achievement was realised under the EU-backed VERGE Project, which focuses on advancing digital production and innovation capabilities in Türkiye.
The initiative connected R&D teams in Istanbul and Eskişehir, cities located over 300 kilometres apart, through high-speed 5G infrastructure. Using XR headsets, engineers at Turkcell Kartal Plaza and Beko’s R&D Centre collaborated on complex 3D product designs in a shared digital space, eliminating the need for physical presence.
This marks the first time a live, cross-city XR industrial design session has been completed in Türkiye, setting a new standard for remote collaboration in design and manufacturing.
5G and XR: Revolutionising Industrial Design
At the project launch workshop, attendees witnessed a live demonstration of the XR collaboration, which showcased the practical potential of low-latency 5G networks in industrial settings. The system used network slicing — a technique that creates dedicated virtual networks on shared infrastructure — to ensure optimal performance, security, and responsiveness. Artificial intelligence played a role in managing network resources autonomously.
“This project supports the goals of Türkiye’s 12th National Development Plan, which prioritises digital transformation as a driver of sustainable growth,” said Prof. Dr. Vehbi Çağrı Güngör, Chief Technology Officer at Turkcell. “By leading such initiatives and working with global partners, we are enhancing our country’s role in the international R&D ecosystem.”
Transforming Product Development
Yekta Caymaz, Executive Director of Information Technologies at Beko, highlighted the productivity benefits:
“Real-time remote design via XR shortens development cycles and enhances collaboration quality, even across continents. It also aligns with our sustainability goals by reducing travel and increasing resource efficiency.”
Mehmet Oğul, General Manager of Ericsson Türkiye, echoed the impact:
“This collaboration is not only about cutting-edge technology. It contributes to Türkiye’s wider ambition for innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness.”
The implementation allows for instant visualisation, feedback, and design iteration, offering a flexible, cost-effective alternative to traditional in-person sessions. Large-scale 3D models were streamed and adjusted in real time using product lifecycle management (PLM) software, paving the way for future applications in fields ranging from automotive and aerospace to consumer electronics.
Future Outlook
The VERGE Project stands as a model for public-private partnerships in the realm of advanced communications and industrial innovation. The successful use of XR over 5G to connect teams across cities offers promising implications for remote R&D, smart manufacturing, and the future of work.
By leveraging Türkiye’s growing 5G infrastructure and technical talent, the project positions the country to lead in next-generation industrial transformation across Europe and beyond.
